The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers with Commentaries for Sunday, November 19, 2023—Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost

 

The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers

with Commentaries
Sunday, November 19, 2023
Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost
[Ordinary 33, Proper 28]

Faithful Stewardship and Watchful Anticipation

Judges 4:1-7; Psalm 123; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11;

Matthew 25:14-30
(Revised Common Lectionary Year A)
(Semi-continuous Reading Plan)

Introduction

In this collection of scripture passages from Judges 4:1-7, Psalm 123, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, and Matthew 25:14-30, we delve into themes of faithfulness, stewardship, and watchful anticipation. These verses provide valuable insights into how we are called to live our lives as faithful servants of God, responsibly managing the talents and resources entrusted to us while eagerly awaiting the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. Together, they offer a tapestry of wisdom and guidance for believers seeking to navigate the challenges of the world with faith, hope, and readiness for the fulfillment of God's promises. Let us now explore these passages and discover the profound lessons they hold for our spiritual journey.

Thanksgiving Chair

Opening Prayer
(Psalm 123, 1 Thessalonians 5)

Heavenly Father, as we gather here today, our hearts are filled with gratitude for the gift of life and the countless blessings You have bestowed upon us. We are reminded of the call to be faithful stewards of all that You have entrusted to us, and we come before You with hearts open and ready to embrace this responsibility.

Lord, You have entrusted us with the precious gift of time, talent, and resources. Help us to use these gifts wisely and in accordance with Your will. May we be faithful stewards of the earth, caring for creation with love and reverence. Guide us in our responsibilities at work, in our families, and in our communities, so that we may honor You in all that we do.

As we consider the theme of watchful anticipation, we are reminded of Your promise to return one day. Help us to live each day in a manner that reflects our anticipation of Your coming. May we be vigilant and prepared for Your return, eagerly awaiting the day when we will be united with You forever.

In our journey of faith, we encounter challenges and trials. Grant us the strength and perseverance to face these obstacles with unwavering faith. Let our faith be a shining light in a world filled with darkness, a testimony to Your goodness and grace.

Lord, we also pray for wisdom and discernment as we navigate the choices and decisions before us. May Your Holy Spirit guide us in making choices that align with Your will and that bring glory to Your name.

We thank You for Your faithfulness, which is our anchor and our hope. As we seek to be faithful stewards and watchful in anticipation, we trust in Your unfailing love and provision. May our lives be a living testimony of Your faithfulness to all who encounter us.

In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Prayer of Confession
(1 Thessalonians 5, Matthew 25)

Heavenly Father, we come before you with humble hearts, acknowledging our need for your forgiveness and grace. Your Word reminds us in 1 Thessalonians 5 to "give thanks in all circumstances," but too often, we have failed to do so. We have allowed our circumstances to cloud our gratitude, and for this, we confess our sin.

Forgive us, Lord, for the times we have grumbled and complained, instead of rejoicing in your goodness and faithfulness. We acknowledge that you are in control of all things, and we trust in your sovereign plan for our lives.

In Matthew 25, we are reminded of the parable of the talents, where you entrusted your servants with different gifts. We confess that we have not always been faithful stewards of the gifts and talents you have given us. We have squandered opportunities and neglected to use our abilities for your glory.

Forgive us, Lord, for the times we have buried our talents in fear or laziness, rather than investing them for your kingdom. Help us to be faithful stewards of all that you have entrusted to us.

We also confess our shortcomings in caring for the least of these, as mentioned in Matthew 25. We have at times turned a blind eye to the needs of those around us, failing to see your face in the hungry, thirsty, stranger, naked, sick, and imprisoned. Forgive us, Lord, for our indifference and neglect.

Give us hearts of compassion and a desire to serve others as if we were serving you, for in serving the least of these, we are serving you.

Lord, we thank you for your boundless love and mercy. We ask for your forgiveness and cleansing, and we pray for your strength and guidance to live in a way that brings honor and glory to your name.

In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Assurance of Pardon
(1 Thessalonians 5, Judges 4)

Beloved, as we gather in the presence of our gracious and forgiving God, let us remember the words of the apostle Paul in 1 Thessalonians 5:9-10: 'For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him.'

Even in our moments of weakness and waywardness, remember the story of Deborah and Barak from Judges 4, when the Lord delivered His people from adversity. Just as He forgave and redeemed them, so too does He extend His forgiveness to us.

Therefore, I declare to you today, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that your sins are forgiven. By faith, you are reconciled to God, and His grace is sufficient for you. Walk in the freedom and peace that comes from the forgiveness of your sins, and may His love and mercy guide your every step. Amen.

Introduction to the Word
(Psalm 19)

Today's scripture lessons draw us into the timeless and profound wisdom found in Psalm 19. This sacred passage, attributed to the Psalmist David, offers us a poetic and heartfelt reflection on the divine revelation through both nature and the written word. As we delve into today's scripture lessons, we are invited to contemplate the majesty of God's creation and the transformative power of His teachings, reminding us of the beauty and wisdom that surround us daily. Let us open our hearts and minds as we explore the rich insights and spiritual guidance that our scripture lessons offers us today.

Today’s Lectionary Readings
First Reading

Judges 4:1-7
The judgeship of Deborah

Judges 4:1-7 is a passage from the Old Testament of the Bible that offers a fascinating glimpse into the tumultuous period of Israel's history when they were led by a series of judges appointed by God. This passage specifically focuses on the leadership of a remarkable woman named Deborah and her role in a pivotal moment of Israelite history. Set in a time of turmoil and foreign oppression, Judges 4:1-7 demonstrates the power of faith, courage, and divine intervention in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.

4 1 Again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord, now that Ehud was dead. 2 So the Lord sold them into the hands of Jabin king of Canaan, who reigned in Hazor. Sisera, the commander of his army, was based in Harosheth Haggoyim. 3 Because he had nine hundred chariots fitted with iron and had cruelly oppressed the Israelites for twenty years, they cried to the Lord for help.

4 Now Deborah, a prophet, the wife of Lappidoth, was leading Israel at that time. 5 She held court under the Palm of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim, and the Israelites went up to her to have their disputes decided. 6 She sent for Barak son of Abinoam from Kedesh in Naphtali and said to him, “The Lord, the God of Israel, commands you: ‘Go, take with you ten thousand men of Naphtali and Zebulun and lead them up to Mount Tabor. 7 I will lead Sisera, the commander of Jabin’s army, with his chariots and his troops to the Kishon River and give him into your hands.’”

Commentary

In Judges 4:1-7, we find the Israelites once again caught in a cycle of sin and oppression. The opening verse tells us that the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord after the death of Ehud, the previous judge who had delivered them from the Moabites. This disobedience resulted in their being subjected to oppression by Jabin, the king of Canaan, who had a powerful military commander named Sisera.

What makes this passage particularly intriguing is the central role played by Deborah, a prophetess and the wife of Lappidoth. Deborah's position as both a prophetess and a judge was highly unusual in the patriarchal society of her time, but it serves as a testament to her faith and God-given wisdom. Deborah's name means bee, which might symbolize her wisdom, as bees are often associated with industriousness and order.

Deborah summoned Barak, a military leader from the tribe of Naphtali, and delivered a message from the Lord to him. She instructed him to gather ten thousand men from the tribes of Naphtali and Zebulun and lead them against Sisera's army. Barak, however, hesitated and expressed reluctance to go into battle without Deborah by his side. Deborah agreed to accompany him but prophesied that the victory over Sisera would ultimately be credited to a woman, not Barak.

Deborah's involvement in the military strategy is significant, as it highlights her leadership and the trust that the people had in her as a prophetess. Her role challenges traditional gender roles and underscores the idea that God can choose and empower individuals, regardless of gender, to fulfill His purposes.

As the passage unfolds, we see the faith and obedience of Barak and the Israelite troops as they respond to Deborah's call to action. Their willingness to follow her leadership reflects their faith in God's guidance through His appointed leaders.

In conclusion, Judges 4:1-7 is a compelling narrative that showcases the interplay of faith, divine intervention, and the role of women in leadership within the context of ancient Israel. Deborah's unwavering faith, wisdom, and courage set her apart as a remarkable figure in biblical history, and her story serves as an inspirational example of how God can use individuals, regardless of societal expectations, to accomplish His purposes. This passage reminds us that God can raise up leaders from unexpected places and that His plans often defy human conventions.

A Psalm and A Prayer
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 123
Our eyes look to God

Amidst the vast collection of hymns, laments, and praises found in the Book of Psalms, Psalm 123 stands out as a poignant cry for mercy. In the midst of oppression and disdain from those who hold themselves in higher esteem, the psalmist looks towards the heavens, seeking God's unfailing grace. It is a timeless reminder of the humility with which we approach the Creator, recognizing our dependence on His mercy and longing for His favor. As you read this psalm, may you be reminded of the ever-present love of God, who never turns a deaf ear to the pleas of His children, and may you find solace in His embrace.

1 I lift up my eyes to you, *
        to you who sit enthroned in heaven.

2 As the eyes of slaves look to the hand of their master, *
        as the eyes of a female slave look to the hand of her mistress,

  So our eyes look to the Lord our God, *
        till he shows us his mercy.

3 Have mercy on us, Lord, have mercy on us, *
        for we have endured no end of contempt.

4 We have endured no end *
        of ridicule from the arrogant,
            of contempt from the proud.

Dear Heavenly Father, we lift our eyes to You, our God enthroned in heaven, just as the psalmist did in Psalm 123. We come before You with humble hearts, recognizing that You alone are our source of help and protection.

Lord, we acknowledge our need for Your mercy and grace. Just as servants look to their master for guidance and provision, we look to You, our loving and merciful Creator, for guidance, sustenance, and strength. We are utterly dependent on Your unfailing love.

In a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, we seek refuge in Your unwavering presence. Like the psalmist, we cry out to You for mercy, knowing that Your compassion is boundless. As we face the trials and tribulations of life, help us to trust in Your wisdom and timing, knowing that You see the bigger picture and have a purpose for every circumstance.

Lord, we pray that You would extend Your hand of protection over us, just as the psalmist sought protection from the contempt of others. Shield us from harm, and grant us the strength to persevere through difficult times.

May our eyes always be fixed on You, our Savior and Redeemer. We thank You for Your love, Your faithfulness, and Your presence in our lives.

In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Second Reading
From the Epistles

1 Thessalonians 5:1-11
Be alert for the day of the Lord

The passage found in 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 is a portion of the New Testament letter written by the Apostle Paul to the early Christian community in Thessalonica. In this section, Paul continues his pastoral guidance and encouragement to the believers, touching upon themes of the end times, spiritual preparedness, and the importance of living in the light of God's truth. This passage reflects Paul's desire to comfort and instruct the Thessalonian Christians in their faith journey.

5 1 Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, 2 for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3 While people are saying, “Peace and safety,” destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.

4 But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. 5 You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. 6 So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober. 7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night. 8 But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet. 9 For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. 10 He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. 11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

Commentary

1. The Day of the Lord: Paul begins by addressing a topic that has intrigued and sometimes perplexed Christians throughout history: the Day of the Lord. He compares it to a thief in the night, emphasizing that it will come unexpectedly. Just as a thief's arrival is unforeseen, so too will be the return of Jesus Christ. This underscores the importance of readiness and vigilance for believers.

2. Children of Light: Paul draws a sharp contrast between believers and those who live in spiritual darkness. He likens Christians to children of the light and children of the day, highlighting their call to live in a manner that is morally upright and spiritually awake. The call to be children of the light is a recurring theme in Paul's writings, emphasizing the transformative power of Christ in believers' lives.

3. Spiritual Armor: Paul uses the imagery of spiritual armor to illustrate the necessity of faith, love, and hope as protective elements for Christians. These qualities not only strengthen believers but also serve as a defense against spiritual attacks and discouragement. Paul encourages the Thessalonian Christians to put on this spiritual armor, reinforcing their faith in Christ.

4. Encouragement and Edification: Throughout this passage, Paul provides words of encouragement and exhortation to the Thessalonian believers. He reminds them that they have been appointed to receive salvation through Jesus Christ, not to face God's wrath. This assurance serves to comfort them and build up their faith in challenging times.

5. Community and Mutual Support: Paul also underscores the importance of the Christian community. Believers are urged to encourage one another and build each other up. This sense of communal support and mutual edification is vital for Christians as they navigate the challenges of life and anticipate the return of Christ.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Paul offers valuable insights into the Christian life, emphasizing the need for readiness, moral integrity, faith, love, and hope. It is a reminder to live with a sense of urgency and anticipation for the return of Jesus Christ while nurturing a supportive and loving Christian community. This passage continues to resonate with believers today, encouraging them to walk in the light of Christ's truth and be prepared for the future.

Today’s Gospel Reading

Matthew 25:14-30
Slaves entrusted with talents

Matthew 25:14-30 is a parable found in the New Testament of the Bible, spoken by Jesus Christ during his earthly ministry. This passage is often referred to as the "Parable of the Talents" and contains valuable lessons about stewardship, faithfulness, and accountability. In this parable, Jesus uses a story of a wealthy man and his servants to illustrate important spiritual principles that are relevant to believers of all generations. As we explore this passage, we will uncover the deeper meanings and implications of the lessons it imparts.

25 14 “Again, it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them. 15 To one he gave five bags of gold, to another two bags, and to another one bag, each according to his ability. Then he went on his journey. 16 The man who had received five bags of gold went at once and put his money to work and gained five bags more. 17 So also, the one with two bags of gold gained two more. 18 But the man who had received one bag went off, dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money.

19 “After a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them. 20 The man who had received five bags of gold brought the other five. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with five bags of gold. See, I have gained five more.’

21 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’

22 “The man with two bags of gold also came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with two bags of gold; see, I have gained two more.’

23 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’

24 “Then the man who had received one bag of gold came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘I knew that you are a hard man, harvesting where you have not sown and gathering where you have not scattered seed. 25 So I was afraid and went out and hid your gold in the ground. See, here is what belongs to you.’

26 “His master replied, ‘You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed? 27 Well then, you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers, so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest.

28 “‘So take the bag of gold from him and give it to the one who has ten bags. 29 For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. 30 And throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’

Commentary

In this parable, Jesus begins by describing a wealthy man who entrusts his property to his servants before going on a journey. To each of these servants, he gives a different number of talents, a unit of currency in biblical times. The first servant receives five talents, the second receives two, and the third receives one. This allocation of talents is done each according to his ability, highlighting the master's knowledge of his servants' capabilities.

The first two servants immediately put their talents to work. They invest and double the amount they were given, showing diligence, faithfulness, and a sense of responsibility. When the master returns, he commends and rewards these two servants, saying, "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!"

However, the third servant takes a different approach. He buries his one talent in the ground, fearing the master's strictness and wanting to ensure he doesn't lose anything. When the master returns and discovers this, he is displeased. The third servant's excuse is that he feared the master's character, describing him as a hard man. This fear leads to inaction, and as a result, he faces judgment and loses even the one talent he had.

The key lessons of this parable are clear:

1. Stewardship: The parable emphasizes that everything we have is a trust from God. We are called to be faithful stewards of the resources, abilities, and opportunities He has given us.

2. Faithfulness: The faithful servants who invest their talents wisely are rewarded and entrusted with more responsibilities. This highlights the principle that faithfulness in small things leads to greater opportunities and blessings.

3. Accountability: The parable reminds us that we will be held accountable for how we use the resources and gifts God has given us. It warns against complacency, laziness, and a fear-based approach to life.

4. The Character of God: The master's response to the servants reflects the character of God. He rewards faithfulness and desires to share His joy with those who are faithful.

In summary, Matthew 25:14-30 challenges believers to be faithful stewards, to invest their God-given talents, and to overcome fear with trust and action. It underscores the importance of living with a mindset of accountability and responsibility in light of God's gracious provision.

Here end the Readings

Click HERE to read today’s Holy Gospel Lesson message

The Nicene Creed

The Nicene Creed

• We believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible.

• And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, begotten from the Father before all ages, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made; of the same essence as the Father. Through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven; he became incarnate by the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary, and was made human. He was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate; he suffered and was buried. The third day he rose again, according to the Scriptures. He ascended to heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again with glory to judge the living and the dead. His kingdom will never end.

• And we believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life. He proceeds from the Father and the Son, and with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified. He spoke through the prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church. We affirm one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look forward to the resurrection of the dead, and to life in the world to come. Amen.

The Lord’s Prayer

The Lord's Prayer - Our Father Who Art in Heaven

Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive them that trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

Holy Communion

Holy Communion

A nondenominational serving of bread and wine

Though no video can truly replace the experience of celebrating together in our places of worship, we know that where two or more are gathered, the Lord is present. This table is open to all who recognize Jesus Christ as healer and redeemer. This table is open to all who work to bring God’s Kingdom here on earth. No one is turned away because of life circumstances. No one is barred from this table. No one seeking God’s abundant grace and mercy is turned aside. We see before us the abundance that a life of faith offers as we respond to God’s everlasting mercy in prayer and deed.

Communion Prayer
(Philippians 2)

Pour out your Holy Spirit on us and on these gifts of bread and wine. Make them be for us the life and love of Christ, that we may be the body of Christ for the world, redeemed and unified by Christ’s love and grace. By your Spirit, make us one with Christ, one with one another, and one in ministry to all the world, until Christ comes in final victory and we feast at your heavenly banquet. Through Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit in your holy church, all honor and glory is yours, almighty God, now and forevermore. Amen.

Benediction
(1 Thessalonians 5)

May the God of peace sanctify you completely, setting you apart for His divine purpose. May your spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

May you always rejoice, pray without ceasing, and give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ abound in your life, and may His love fill your heart abundantly.

Go forth in peace, knowing that the God of peace is with you always. Amen.

Thanksgiving is Here

Optional parts of the readings are set off in [square brackets].

The Bible texts of the Old Testament, Epistle, and Gospel lessons are from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Commentaries by Kenny Sallee, ThM.

The Daily Lectionary is a three year cyclical lectionary. We are currently in Year A. Beginning with the first Sunday of Advent in 2023, we will be in Year B. The year which ended at Advent 2022 was Year A. These readings complement the Sunday and festival readings: Thursday through Saturday readings help prepare the reader for the Sunday ahead; Monday through Wednesday readings help the reader reflect and digest on what they heard in worship. Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings, copyright © 2005 Consultation on Common Texts. www.commontexts.org
The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers for Sunday, November 19, 2023
Faithful Stewardship and Watchful Anticipation
Judges 4:1-7; Psalm 123; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11; Matthew 25:14-30
In this collection of scripture passages from Judges 4:1-7, Psalm 123, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, and Matthew 25:14-30, we delve into themes of faithfulness, stewardship, and watchful anticipation. These verses provide valuable insights into how we are called to live our lives as faithful servants of God, responsibly managing the talents and resources entrusted to us while eagerly awaiting the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. Together, they offer a tapestry of wisdom and guidance for believers seeking to navigate the challenges of the world with faith, hope, and readiness for the fulfillment of God's promises. Let us now explore these passages and discover the profound lessons they hold for our spiritual journey.